Signs of Neglect vs. Aging: Legal Challenges in Identifying Nursing Home Abuse

Making the choice to place a loved one in a nursing home can be challenging, but it’s made with the hope they’ll receive exceptional care. Unfortunately, neglect in nursing homes is a harsh reality for many families in Atlanta.

This blog can help you identify potential warning signs and empower you to take action with the help of an Atlanta nursing home neglect lawyer.

Spotting the Signs of Neglect

Our loved ones deserve to thrive, not simply survive, in a nursing home environment. Certain signs can indicate a resident is being neglected. These include:

Unexplained injuries or bedsores: These can result from falls caused by inadequate supervision or a lack of proper mobility assistance.
Dehydration or weight loss: These can be signs of malnutrition or a lack of attention to a resident’s dietary needs.
Poor hygiene or unsanitary conditions: These raise concerns about basic care and the overall environment.
Withdrawn behavior or sudden mood changes: These could be a resident’s way of expressing fear, loneliness, or depression due to neglect.
Medication errors: These can have severe consequences and raise questions about proper medication management.

What to Do If You Suspect Abuse and Neglect in a Nursing Home

It’s imperative to act if you suspect neglect or abuse in a nursing home. Here are some steps you can take:

Document everything you see. This could include injuries, unsanitary conditions, or the resident’s behavior. Be sure to note the date and time of your observations.
Talk to the resident privately. If possible, try to talk to the resident alone and ask them about their well-being. Let them know you are there for them.
Report your concerns to the nursing home staff. Start by talking to the nurse in charge of the resident’s care or the director of nursing.
Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is an advocate for residents in long-term care facilities. They can investigate your concerns and help you file a formal complaint. You can find contact information for your local Ombudsman online or by calling your state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC).
File a report with Adult Protective Services (APS). Adult Protective Services (APS) investigates cases of adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation. You can find contact information for your local APS agency online or by calling your state’s Adult Protective Services department.
Consider involving law enforcement. If you believe a crime has been committed, such as physical assault or financial exploitation, you should contact the police.

Why You Need an Atlanta Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer

An Atlanta personal injury lawyer can be a powerful advocate in a nursing home neglect or abuse case. Here’s when involving a lawyer might be the best course of action:

The situation is serious. If your loved one has suffered significant injuries, malnutrition, or emotional distress due to neglect, a nursing home neglect lawyer can help you explore legal options, hold the nursing home accountable and potentially recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The nursing home is not responsive to your concerns. If you’ve reported the neglect or abuse to the staff and administration and haven’t seen a positive change, an Atlanta personal injury attorney can guide you through the tricky legal process and file a formal complaint.
The evidence is complex. Building a solid case for neglect or abuse often requires gathering medical records, witness testimonies, and expert opinions. A lawyer experienced in elder law can help you collect and analyze this evidence.
You want to deter future abuse. Sometimes, taking legal action can send a message to the nursing home and the wider industry that neglect and abuse of the elderly will not be tolerated.

Look for a lawyer with experience in elder law and nursing home neglect/abuse cases. They possess the legal knowledge and experience necessary to manage your case effectively.

Many Atlanta personal injury lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your situation. There may be options for contingency fees, where the lawyer’s fees are based on a percentage of your compensation.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to involve a lawyer is a personal one. However, consulting with a lawyer can assist you in knowing your rights and options and provide you peace of mind, knowing you’re taking the best steps to protect your loved one.

How Bey & Associates Can Help

At Bey & Associates, we understand the complexities of elder abuse and neglect cases and can lead you through the legal maze:

Distinguish between neglect and aging: Our lawyers will painstakingly analyze medical records and gather witness accounts to build a strong case that separates the natural effects of aging from neglectful practices.
Fight for compensation: You and your loved one should receive recompense for the physical and emotional pain resulting from neglect.
We will steadfastly strive to ensure the nursing home is held accountable and you receive the financial support you need.
Protect your loved one: Legal action can not only bring justice but also serve as a powerful deterrent to future neglect. We can work with you to ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being in the nursing home or find a more suitable care facility.

At Bey & Associates, we understand the emotional and financial strain associated with nursing home neglect. Our Atlanta nursing home neglect lawyers are dedicated to advocating for your loved ones and making sure they receive the care and respect they are entitled to.